Patriotic 4th of July Getaways

Nothing says summer like our nation’s birthday (Happy 240th, America!). What better way to pay homage to the land of the free and home of the brave than visiting  top patriotic spots across the country? Conveniently, we’ve got many routes that can take you to magnificent monuments and their cities for a day of fun, family and fireworks.

1. Washington Monument, Washington, D.C.

The 555 foot obelisk was built in honor of the first president of the United States, George Washington. The monument acts as D.C.’s centerpiece and if you’re brave enough to venture to the top you can see sweeping views of the National Mall, Virginia and Maryland.
Route: Acela Express, Northeast Regional and 6 others!

 

2. Quincy Market / Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston

Nicknamed the “Cradle of Liberty”, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is home to four great places all in one location – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market. Built in 1742, Faneuil Hall still acts as Boston’s central meeting place.
Routes: Acela Express, Downeaster, Northeast Regional

 

3. Lincoln Memorial, Washington

“In this temple, as in the hearts of the people for whom he saved the Union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever.” Beneath this quote is the 19 foot tall statue of Abraham Lincoln, which sits in the center of the Lincoln Memorial. The Lincoln Memorial sits at the base of the reflecting pool and the memorial’s steps provide a resting place for visitors and have acted as a stage for historical events throughout our country’s history.
Route: Acela Express, Northeast Regional and 6 others!

 

4. The White House, Washington

The “People’s House” has acted as the home for every president since John Adams. The halls of the home are rich with American history. Want to take a peek inside? Be sure to request your ticket from your Member of Congress.
Route: Acela Express, Northeast Regional and 6 others!

 

5. Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Route: Pennsylvanian, Carolinian and 7 others!

Known as the Birthplace of America, Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and U.S Constitution were signed. Tickets are required to tour the hall, but are free.

 

6. Statue of Liberty, New York City

Recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty of liberty is a bronze statue, which sits atop Liberty Island welcoming visitors into New York City’s harbor. The statue is accessible by ferry, which also makes stops at  Ellis Island.
Routes: Acela, Northeast Regional and 12 others!

 

7. Jefferson Memorial, Washington

The Memorial, which is modeled after Jefferson’s taste in classical architecture, stands in a straight line with the White House. Visit the memorial to pay homage to the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and take a spin around the Tidal Basin on a paddle boat.
Route: Acela Express, Northeast Regional and 6 others!

 

8. Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia
Route: Pennsylvanian, Carolinian and 7 others!

 The Liberty Bell once rang in the tower Independence Hall. Today, visitors can see the cracked bell and walk the same streets as our founding fathers. 

9. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Famously nicknamed “The Rock”, Alcatraz Island is a must visit destination if you find yourself in the Bay Area.
Route: California Zephyr

 

10. One of America’s National Parks

Pick a park, any park and help celebrate the National Park Service’s Centennial. Nothing says America like our beautiful national parks and Amtrak can proudly deliver you to more than 260 national park lands.

 

Pro-tip: Book early and save! Happy 4th of July planning!